Branden Pannell is in his first year as an assistant coach for the Ave Maria University women’s basketball team.
A native of Harlem, New York, Pannell competed for the Ave Maria men’s basketball program during his collegiate career, where he was known for his leadership, communication, and dedication to team culture. During his time at AMU, he served as a resident assistant, campus ministry leader, and student mentor, helping foster a strong community rooted in faith and purpose.
Before joining the women’s basketball staff, Pannell served as the head middle school boys’ basketball coach at Donahue Academy for two seasons, where he led player development and implemented a faith-based leadership approach that helped strengthen the school’s basketball foundation.
Pannell graduated from Ave Maria University with a Bachelor of Arts in Communications. In addition to coaching, he is a published author and motivational speaker whose work focuses on faith, identity, and personal growth. Through his experiences as an athlete, mentor, and communicator, Coach Pannell brings a holistic approach to player development emphasizing servantship, identity, and purpose in every aspect of the game.
